Latest news with #MarkWhelan
Irish Independent
29-04-2025
- Climate
- Irish Independent
Arklow's community spirit on show at East Coast Roosters Motorcycle Club run
Setting off from Arklow in damp conditions, the convoy of riders rode north in torrential rain before stopping off for the night in Donegal. Soaked to the bone, the riders dried off their clothes as much as possible, then hit the road bound for Killarney, where they spent the night, before embarking on the home leg to Arklow. Welcomed home to the Arklow Bay Hotel by crowds of family members, friends, supporters and representatives from Arklow Cancer Support, riders were beaming with pride at having completed one of the most challenging charity runs in the history of the almost two-decade-old fundraiser. Praising his fellow East Coast Roosters Motorcycle Club for their endurance and unwavering support for the run that has seen over hundreds of thousands raised for local charities, club founder Mark Whelan said there were a few sore bodies after the ride. 'We've never witnessed weather like it before, and it couldn't have rained any harder when we were leaving,' Mark said. 'It kept going for the whole day, and while we stopped for fuel, we were so wet that we couldn't take the wet gear off to stop for food, so we didn't have anything to eat until we got to Donegal. 'We got up in the morning and, lo and behold, it was but bucketing down and the clothes were still damp from the previous day, despite the lads trying to dry them on radiators overnight. 'But the spirits remained high, and those lads have big hearts. They just keep going and don't complain. 'On Sunday, we still got a couple of heavy showers, and we made it back to the Arklow Bay at 4.30 pm, where the families and Arklow Cancer Support volunteers clapped us. 'The lads were so tired, as it was a real test of mental endurance, having to concentrate 100pc of the time because of the weather. 'But we made it home safe and sound, which is always the main thing, so it was another successful run for the books!' Reflecting on the run, long-term East Coast Roosters David Guilfoyle said that, while it was one of the more challenging ones they have taken on, everyone pushed through to complete it, as they always do. 'I'd say the divers in the North Sea wouldn't have got as wet as we did,' David joked. 'The rain was relentless, the whole way up and leaving Donegal on the second day – it just didn't let up. 'However, it was still a really good run. We all made it back. There were no accidents, and we raised a few quid. And it was actually one of the better organised runs, in terms of managing the group. 'After all that weather, I think the lads were delighted to make it back to Arklow and see their families. 'When you're coming into the bay and you see the volunteers from Arklow Cancer Support and all the families, it makes it all worth it.'
Khaleej Times
17-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Sharjah's viral Meliha milk will now be served to Air Arabia passengers
Heard of the viral, hard-to-find Meliha organic milk that's flying off shelves? Well, you can now have it while flying — thanks to Air Arabia's in-flight dining. The Sharjah-based budget airline has already introduced Meliha kid's flavoured milk onboard since April 1. The carrier is expanding its organic offerings, exploring additional products such as organic chicken, honey, and milk, depending on the farm's production. Known for its extensive network connecting to numerous destinations across Asia, India, and beyond, Air Arabia aims to redefine in-flight dining experiences. The airline collaborated with Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment (EKTIFA) to launch the first-ever organic products on board. This collaboration sets a new standard for health and wellness in the skies, offering passengers nutritious options tailored to those with gluten intolerance and other dietary requirements. Mark Whelan, managing director at Alpha Flight Services (dnata Catering & Retail UAE), expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration: "Today, we are excited to introduce our first organic product onboard Air Arabia flights. This partnership marks a significant step forward in providing our passengers with healthy meal options that cater to a variety of dietary preferences." Whelan highlighted the scientific benefits of the EKTIFA Organic products, noting that they are particularly beneficial for individuals with gluten intolerance and ADHD. "Not only do these products serve as a healthy option for our passengers and crew, but we also plan to extend these offerings to the airport, sharing their benefits with all travellers," he added. Dr Eng Khalifa Musabeh Ahmed Alteneiji, chairman of the Ektifa, expressed pride in the collaboration: "We are thrilled to partner with Air Arabia to supply them with healthy and safe food products from Ektifa. This partnership reflects our commitment to providing communities with clean and nutritious food." The demand for organic products has surged, with many individuals in the community praising the quality of Meliha milk, sourced from cows in Denmark that receive exceptional care. Dr Al Tuniji emphasised the importance of returning to traditional techniques in food production, which not only ensure safety but also promote community health. "We have seen tangible health benefits at a personal level, particularly among children and patients. Many individuals who previously avoided wheat and dairy products are now returning to them due to the ease of digestion and the absence of allergic reactions," he remarked. The Meliha organic milk, launched in last August, has residents lining up as early as 6am to get their hands on it by 10am, the daily batch of approximately 4,000 litres is typically was sold out. Meliha Dairy Farm currently produces 58,000 litres daily of fresh organic milk containing A2A2 protein, in addition to children's milk with natural flavours free from any additives, fresh yoghurt, and long-lasting organic milk. The (EKTIFA) company has also widen its product range, with launching flavoured infant milk, and long-life milk. Plans to diversify Meliha dairy's offerings, introducing yoghurt,EKTIFA aims to launch organic vegetables, fruits, and honey products, along with a new range of organic free-range poultry set to debut in June. The milk stands out for its high-quality composition, containing more than 4 per cent fat and 3.5 per cent protein, as well as A2A2 protein, known for easy digestibility and minimal intestinal discomfort. With 14.5 million passengers passing through the airport last year and projections of 20 million by 2030 due to new Sharjah airport expansions, Air Arabia is poised to offer this innovative dining experience to a growing number of travellers.
